Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pinguicula cyclosecta
BeginnerPinguicula cyclosecta
A small butterwort from limestone country in north-eastern Mexico. The blue-violet edges of its fleshy leaves are unmistakable, and in strong light the whole leaf can colour. The purple flowers have evenly rounded petals.
About
Pinguicula cyclosecta is a butterwort species endemic to the Sierra Madre Oriental in Nuevo León, north-eastern Mexico, described by S. J. Casper in 1963. It grows among moss and in limestone crevices wet with seepage; its sites face away from the sun, are windy and cool, and dry out almost completely in winter. In summer it forms a rosette up to 6 cm across of up to about 25 spatulate, somewhat succulent leaves whose sticky surface catches small insects. The strongly blue-violet leaf margins are the clearest mark of the species, and in bright light the whole leaf can take on this colour. The edges turn up slightly, keeping digestive fluid from running off. In winter it switches to a compact rosette about 2.5 cm across of small, succulent, non-carnivorous leaves. From May to July it bears violet flowers up to 3 cm across on one to three short stalks. The five evenly rounded petals give it its name ('cut in a circle'). P. lateciliata is a synonym. In Japan it is sold by general online retailers and at auctions. It is one of the smaller Mexican butterworts, grown for its blue-violet leaf colour.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Pinguicula cyclosecta
The Pinguicula cyclosecta grows to Summer rosette up to 6 cm across; winter rosette about 2.5 cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Mexico (Sierra Madre Oriental, Nuevo León)
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
Summer rosette up to 6 cm across; winter rosette about 2.5 cm
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Little or no fertilizer needed (catches small insects on sticky leaves)
Growing Tips
Temperature & Overwintering
In summer it makes carnivorous leaves in warm, humid conditions; in winter keep it cooler and drier and it rests as a rosette of succulent leaves. Typical indoor windowsill conditions suit it well.
Light & Placement
Grow on a bright windowsill or under lights. Many grow on cliffs with little direct sun in the wild, so avoid harsh midsummer sun.
Watering
In summer, when it has carnivorous leaves, the pot can stand in up to 2 cm of water. Once it switches to succulent winter leaves, let it dry for about a week between waterings.
Soil & Repotting
It is not a bog plant; a mix of equal parts peat, coarse sand and perlite with dolomitic lime added to make it alkaline suits it. Repot or divide in the winter resting phase.
Pests & Cautions
Do not use fungicides on Pinguicula; they can kill the plants. Fungus gnat larvae eat the leaves, so a thin layer of coarse sand on the soil surface helps.
Pinguicula cyclosecta FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Pinguicula cyclosecta?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Pinguicula cyclosecta get?
The mature size of Pinguicula cyclosecta is Summer rosette up to 6 cm across; winter rosette about 2.5 cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Pinguicula cyclosecta?
Pinguicula cyclosecta: watering & fertilizer — Little or no fertilizer needed (catches small insects on sticky leaves). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Pinguicula cyclosecta?
The price of Pinguicula cyclosecta varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Pinguicula cyclosecta Casper
Synonyms: Pinguicula lateciliata McVaugh & Mickel
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF Pinguicula cyclosecta Casper
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed under CITES; no paperwork is needed to buy or grow it in Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) search: Pinguicula cyclosecta (no listing)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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